European aerospace group Airbus said on April 30 it had appointed Eric Kirstetter as Executive Vice President for Strategy, effective May 18, as the company seeks to strengthen its long-term growth and innovation plans.

Kirstetter will replace Matthieu Louvot, who has been nominated as chief executive of Airbus Helicopters, and will report directly to Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury, the company said in a statement.

“Eric is joining Airbus at a critical juncture for the company, as we work to secure a trajectory of sustained growth, bold innovation, and positive societal impact,” Faury said, adding that Kirstetter’s cross-industry experience would help the group navigate geopolitical and technological shifts.

Kirstetter joins Airbus from global consulting firm Roland Berger, where he worked on strategic transformation and growth projects across sectors including aerospace, defence and automotive. Prior to that, he spent 17 years at Arthur D. Little.

Airbus said the new strategy chief brings experience advising clients in Europe, Asia and the United States on mergers and acquisitions, innovation scaling, and operational transformation—areas seen as increasingly important as the aviation industry adapts to supply chain challenges, sustainability goals, and evolving market demand.

The appointment comes at a time when Airbus is navigating a complex operating environment marked by rising aircraft demand, pressure to decarbonise aviation and intensifying global competition.

While the leadership change is not expected to have immediate effects on airline passengers or flight operations, analysts say a strengthened strategic focus could influence future aircraft programmes, production planning and technological investments, including efforts to develop more fuel-efficient and low-emission aircraft.

Airbus said Kirstetter will play a key role in shaping and executing its long-term roadmap, with further strategic initiatives expected as the company positions itself for the next phase of industry growth.

Source: Airbus PR